Malaysia has emerged as a top destination for international students seeking quality education in a vibrant, culturally rich environment. With over 130,000 international students from more than 150 countries studying in Malaysia, the country ranks as the 11th most popular study destination globally, according to UNESCO. To support academic excellence and promote cultural exchange, the Malaysian government, universities, and private organizations offer numerous fully funded scholarships for international students. These scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, and often additional benefits like airfare and medical insurance, making Malaysia an attractive option for pursuing higher education without financial burden. This article explores some of the top fully funded scholarships available for the 2026 academic year, their eligibility criteria, benefits, and application processes.
Did you check – Honjo Foundation Scholarship 2026 in Japan
Why Study in Malaysia?
Malaysia offers a unique blend of high-quality education, affordable living costs, and a multicultural environment. Its universities are globally recognized, with many programs taught in English, eliminating the need for IELTS or TOEFL in some cases. The country’s strategic location in Southeast Asia, modern campuses, and partnerships with international institutions (e.g., from the UK, Australia, and the USA) enhance its appeal. Additionally, Malaysia’s natural beauty, from Mount Kinabalu to Mulu National Park, and its welcoming atmosphere make it an ideal place for students to study and explore.
Check this – Doha Institute for Graduate Studies Scholarship 2026
Fully Funded Scholarships in Malaysia for International Students 2026
1. Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS)
The Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS) is a flagship initiative by the Malaysian government to attract outstanding international students for postgraduate studies (Master’s and PhD) at selected public and private universities. The program aligns with Malaysia’s goal to become a global hub for academic excellence.
- Eligibility:
- Open to citizens of eligible developing countries (check the official MIS portal for the list).
- Applicants must be under 40 years for Master’s programs and 45 years for PhD programs.
- Minimum CGPA of 3.0 or Second Class Upper Honours at the undergraduate level for Master’s applicants; excellent academic results at the Master’s level for PhD applicants.
- English proficiency (IELTS 6.0, TOEFL 550, or proof of English-medium instruction in previous degrees).
- Full-time enrollment in a postgraduate program at a participating Malaysian university.
- Benefits:
- Full tuition fee coverage.
- Monthly living allowance of RM 1,500 (approximately USD 350).
- Medical insurance during the scholarship period.
- Application Process:
- Applications open annually, typically from May to June
- Submit applications via the official MIS online portal
- Required documents include academic transcripts, degree certificates, CV, research proposal (minimum 1,000 words), recommendation letters, passport copy, and medical certificate.
- No university acceptance letter is required at the initial application stage, but scholars must secure admission after receiving the scholarship.
- Note: Applicants are advised to apply early to avoid university application fees, as the scholarship covers tuition only after confirmation.
2. Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP) Scholarship
The MTCP Scholarship, sponsored by the Malaysian Ministry of Education, targets students from developing countries for Master’s degree programs (24–36 months) in various study modes (coursework, mixed mode, or research). It aims to foster knowledge and skills that contribute to the development of recipients’ home countries.
- Eligibility:
- Open to international students from MTCP recipient countries.
- Applicants must be under 45 years old.
- Minimum CGPA of 3.0 or Second Class Upper Honours at the undergraduate level.
- English proficiency (no IELTS/TOEFL required if previous degrees were taught in English).
- Relevant work experience and leadership potential are prioritized.
- Benefits:
- Full tuition fee coverage.
- Monthly living allowance of RM 1,500.
- One-time airfare allowance.
- Medical insurance.
- Application Process:
- Application period typically extends to mid-July
- Apply through the MTCP online portal
- Required documents include academic transcripts, CV, recommendation letters, and a research proposal.
- Note: Priority is given to candidates in fields like public administration, engineering, and information technology who plan to apply their skills in their home countries.
3. Malaysia-Australia Colombo Plan Scholarship
This scholarship supports students from Colombo Plan member countries pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate programs in Malaysia. It promotes educational collaboration between Malaysia and Australia.
- Eligibility:
- Open to citizens of Colombo Plan member countries (e.g., Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, etc.).
- Strong academic records (specific CGPA requirements vary by university).
- English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent, though some universities accept English-medium degree certificates).
- Benefits:
- Full tuition fee coverage.
- Living allowance.
- One-time airfare allowance.
- Application Process:
- Deadlines and requirements vary by university. Check the official websites of participating Malaysian universities for updates.
- Submit applications directly to the chosen university or through the scholarship’s official portal.
- Note: Applicants should verify eligibility and deadlines with the specific university offering the program.
4. Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) – SEARCA Scholarships
In partnership with the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA), UPM offers fully funded scholarships for Master’s and PhD programs in agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and related fields.
- Eligibility:
- Open to citizens of ASEAN member countries (excluding Malaysia).
- Minimum CGPA of 3.0 for Master’s and 3.5 for PhD programs.
- English proficiency (no IELTS required if prior education was in English).
- Benefits:
- 100% tuition fee coverage.
- Monthly stipends.
- Research allowances.
- Application Process:
- Apply through UPM’s online portal or SEARCA’s scholarship application system.
- Deadlines typically align with university intake periods (e.g., March for September intake).
- Required documents include academic transcripts, research proposals, and recommendation letters.
- Note: This scholarship focuses on sustainable development and agricultural research, making it ideal for students in these fields.
5. MyBrain15 Scholarship
The MyBrain15 program, funded by the Malaysian government, supports high-achieving international postgraduate students pursuing Master’s and PhD degrees at top Malaysian universities.
- Eligibility:
- Open to international students in critical fields like STEM, thermal behavior, and consumer behavior analysis.
- Minimum CGPA of 3.0 for Master’s and 3.5 for PhD applicants.
- Full-time enrollment at a participating Malaysian university.
- Benefits:
- Full tuition coverage.
- Monthly allowances.
- Research grants.
- Application Process:
- Applications open annually, typically with deadlines in March for September intake.
- Submit applications through the MyBrain15 portal or participating universities.
- Required documents include academic transcripts, research proposals, and proof of English proficiency.
- Note: This scholarship provides access to cutting-edge research facilities and mentorship from top faculty, ideal for research-oriented students.
6. Malaysia-Japan International Institute of Technology (MJIIT) Scholarships
MJIIT, a collaboration between Malaysia and Japan, offers fully funded scholarships for international students in engineering and technology programs.
- Eligibility:
- Open to international students with strong academic records.
- Minimum CGPA of 3.0 or equivalent.
- English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL or English-medium degree certificate).
- Benefits:
- Full tuition fee coverage.
- Monthly stipends.
- Research and travel allowances for conferences.
- Application Process:
- Apply through MJIIT’s scholarship portal or the university’s admissions office.
- Deadlines vary by program, typically aligning with university intake periods.
- Note: This scholarship is ideal for students interested in engineering and technology with a focus on international collaboration.
Other Notable Scholarships
- Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) Endowmen Scholarship: Offers RM 9,000–12,000 per year for outstanding Malaysian and international students from low-income backgrounds (B40 category). Available for undergraduate and postgraduate studies.
- University of Nottingham Malaysia (UNM) Provost’s Excellence Award: A fully funded scholarship for top-achieving undergraduate international students covering all study expenses.
- International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) CPS Sejahtera Award: Provides up to RM 5,000 per semester for Master’s and RM 7,000 for PhD students with a minimum CGPA of 3.5.
- Asia Pacific University (APU) Scholarships: Offers merit-based scholarships for Bachelor’s and Master’s programs, with no IELTS requirement.
- Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships at Universiti Putra Malaysia: Fully funded for students from Bangladesh and other Commonwealth countries, covering all study expenses. Deadline: 10 January 2026.
Malaysia’s fully funded scholarships provide international students with an excellent opportunity to pursue higher education in a dynamic and affordable study destination. From the prestigious Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS) to specialized programs like UPM-SEARCA and MJIIT scholarships, these opportunities cover tuition, living expenses, and more, ensuring students can focus on their academic and personal growth. By leveraging these scholarships, students can access world-class education, experience Malaysia’s rich culture, and build a foundation for a successful global career.
